Study on Mothers’ Mobile Device Use and Infant Development Receives $2.7 Million Grant
A $2.7 million grant-funded study — awarded to a research team led by kinesiology and public health Professor Alison Ventura — aims to better understand how mothers’ use of technology may impact development during an infant’s first year. The federal funding from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (one of the National Institutes of Health) will support a five-year study involving four university staff and about 20 undergraduate students. “It’s really important for caregivers to be attuned to their infants’ behavioral cues,” said Ventura, whose work since 2016 through the university’s Center for Health Research focuses on parent-child interactions during early childhood. In many ways, a caregiver needs to learn the language of their baby to meet their baby’s needs,” she said. “Does technology use provide mothers with more information and support that benefits their development as a new mother? Are mothers able to multitask when using technology and switch their attention to a baby’s needs?”
Student Diversity and Belonging to Host Fall Welcome Sept. 29
Student Diversity and Belonging (SDAB) will host its Fall Welcome for students, faculty and staff from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 29, in the PAC Plaza. This event is a great opportunity to learn more about each of the cultural centers and programs that make up the collective known as SDAB. This event will have exclusive swag, free meals and plenty of opportunities for students to build community with each other. The event will also feature booths for each of the eight campus resource centers: the Black Academic Excellence Center (BAEC), Native American and Indigenous Cultural Center (NAICC), MultiCultural Center (MCC), Latinx Initiatives, Dream Center, Gender Equity Center (GEC), Pride Center (LGBTQ Campus Life), and Men and Masculinities (M&M).
Faculty, Staff Invited to Take Cal Poly Employee Health and Wellness Survey
Faculty and staff are encouraged to participate in a survey assessing employee health and wellness. The anonymous survey, supported by University Personnel and Campus Health and Wellbeing, and deployed by faculty in the Food Science and Nutrition Department, will give valuable insight into the health of Cal Poly employees and will help inform future programming aimed at helping faculty and staff lead healthier lives. The survey will take about 30-40 minutes. Participants can pause and resume the survey at any time. Employees who provide their name and Cal Poly email will be entered into gift card drawings. Contact Anna Cahn with questions.
Campus Partnership Helps Extend Mustang Shuttle Hours with Daytime Service
Campus community members will have an easier time getting around campus this fall, thanks to a new partnership. ASI, the University Union Advisory Board, University Housing and the Cal Poly Corporation have partnered with Public Safety to extend the Mustang Shuttle Service with new daytime hours. Mustang Shuttle is now running from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and in the evening from 7 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. The daytime shuttle will run on weekdays; the evening shuttle will run seven days a week, not including academic holidays or breaks. Catching a ride on the shuttle will be even easier this fall, following the release of a Mustang Shuttle app that will allow users to track the location and times of the shuttles. Mustang Shuttle will have six campus stops throughout the day and nine in the evening.
Students Help Residents with Record Number of Issues at Low Income Tax Clinic
A couple blindsided by a $223,000 IRS bill was one of a record number of issues students helped remedy at the Cal Poly Low Income Tax Clinic this year. The clinic, which invites members of the public to get free assistance from accounting students, worked on 94 issues in the first six months of 2022, saving clients over $350,000. Pictured is Lisa Sperow, executive director of the Cal Poly Low Income Taxpayer Clinic, working with student team leaders. At the clinic, students represent low-income clients involved in tax controversies before the IRS and the U.S. Tax Court and help provide tax education to the community, all free of charge.
Interim Managing Director of the PAC Named
Ryan Gruss, current director of Patron Services and Campus Ticketing, has been chosen to serve as the interim managing director of the Performing Arts Center starting Oct. 15, following the retirement of Chris Miller. “I’m excited and honored for the opportunity to lead our team at the PAC. I look forward to continuing to work together to provide the campus and our community with an amazing venue showcasing the talents of those on the Central Coast and artists from around the world,” Gruss said. Gruss started at Cal Poly as the box office manager for the Performing Arts Center in 2013, before leading the unification process and creation of the Cal Poly Ticket Office in 2014. Gruss previously worked for four years at Azusa Pacific University as a ticket manager and assistant manager of the on-campus Event Center. Gruss graduated from Azusa Pacific in 2008 with a degree in communication studies and earned his master's degree in business management.
Attend the Virtual Benefits Fair on Oct. 5
With the Benefits Open Enrollment period underway, the Virtual Benefits Fair is employees’ opportunity to ask questions as they make important decisions regarding their coverage. Various health plan and voluntary plan providers will be present at the fair to share important information about rates, changes and key features. Register to attend the Virtual Benefits Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5. The Virtual Benefits Fair is offered during the Benefits Open Enrollment period (Sept. 19 through Oct. 14), which is employees’ annual opportunity to review, enroll, cancel or make changes to their benefits plans to be effective January 2023. For more information, visit the Open Enrollment webpage.
Register for the Virtual Benefits Fair
CTLT’s Fall Quarter Opportunities for Educators
Professional development offerings from the Center for Teaching, Learning and Technology (CTLT) are available to explore. Learn more and sign up for workshops, including:
- Examining Whiteness.
- Introduction to Equitable and Inclusive Teaching.
- Creating a Blended/Hybrid Course.
- Creating Accessible Course Materials.
- Assignment and Assessment Design to Promote Academic Integrity.
- Writing In the Disciplines Introduction and Practice.
- Faculty Writers' Accountability Group.
The CTLT is continuing its Effective Teaching Practices faculty development program utilizing online curriculum from the Association of College and University Educators (ACUE). Participation is prioritized for faculty teaching foundational high-enrollment courses and for newer faculty. Opportunities include:
- Designing Student-Centered Courses (fall quarter).
- ACUE Certificate in Effective College Teaching (yearlong).
- ACUE: Year Two (yearlong).
Learn more and sign up for the book circles offered in fall:
- “Grading for Equity: What It Is, Why It Matters and How It Can Transform Schools and Classrooms” by Joe Feldman.
- “Demystifying Disability: What To Know, What To Say, And How To Be An Ally” by Emily Ladau.
Examining Whiteness Foundational Series Starts in October
Faculty and staff are invited to sign up for "Examining Whiteness,” a program inspired by Building Anti-Racist White Educators (BARWE). The Examining Whiteness foundational series is designed as a first step for white educators toward engaging in critical reflection on whiteness and working toward antiracism. The series is open to individuals at all levels of learning in their personal journey toward better understanding whiteness in their personal and professional lives. This six-week program will meet on Tuesdays, 9:30-11 a.m., from Oct. 11-Nov. 15. Participants must be able to commit to attending at least five sessions. Contact Sarah Macdonald, assistant director/Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Instruction, in CTLT with any questions.
Take Advantage of Professional Development Courses in October
Employee and Organization Development is sharing the release of the October professional development offerings as part of the Cross Campus Collaboration, a series of online workshops offered by Cal Poly and other CSU campuses. These unique opportunities extend learning beyond campus borders and offer a new way to share professional development. New courses and dates have been added for October. View and register using the links below. Registration is on a first-come basis.
- Continuous Improvement Essentials — "Lean Basics”: Oct. 11, 9-10:30 a.m.
- Rejuvenation and Finding Joy: Oct. 11, noon-1:30 p.m.
- How to Electrify Your Drive — The Switch to an Electric Car: Oct. 13, 11 a.m.-noon.
- Avoiding Bias in Hiring: Oct. 13, 1-3 p.m.
- Architects of Life — How to Build Productive Habits: Oct. 14, 11 a.m.-noon.
- Exposing Hidden Bias: Oct. 18, 9-10:30 a.m.
- Productivity Tools: Oct. 19, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
- Trust is a Verb! — The Action you can Observe, Measure and Create: Oct. 20, 10-11:30 a.m.
- Decisions, Decisions! Creative Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Techniques: Oct. 20, 2-4 p.m.
- Personal Branding — Building your Professional Presence: Oct. 26, 2-3 p.m.
- Success as a 1st Gen Professional: Oct. 27, 3-4 p.m.
New Fall Book and Learning Circles for Faculty and Staff Employees
Employee and Organization Development has announced the fall 2022 Book and Learning Circles, where participants can engage in enriching conversations and connect with peers across campus. Book Circles involve reading a book over the course of three to four sessions. The books are:
- “Burnout Recovery” by Amber Pierce.
- “Belonging at Work” by Rhodes Perry.
- “Originals” by Adam Grant.
- “The Book of Beautiful Questions” by Warren Berger.
Learning Circles involve watching a video, listening to a podcast or reading an article and participating in a discussion during a single session. Learning Circles include:
- “The Cure for Burnout” by Emily and Amelia Nagoski.
- “Return on Generosity presents Belonging at Work” by Shannon Cassidy and Rhodes Perry.
- “How to speak up for yourself” by Adam Galinsky.
- “How Great Leaders Inspire Action” by Simon Sinek.
Students Can Explore Opportunities to Study Abroad on Oct. 6
The International Center will host the annual Study Abroad Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 6, on Dexter Lawn. Students can stop by to talk with International Center representatives and learn about opportunities to go abroad. Cal Poly has over 500 programs in 75 countries. Programs can help fulfill GE courses, major-related courses, and even offer internships. Study abroad experiences can range from a week to a year. Studying abroad is a wonderful opportunity for students to immerse themselves in a new country and make amazing lifelong memories during their college career. This experience also gives students the opportunity to gain skills that are crucial in the global market and extremely valuable to employers.
Learn more about the Study Abroad Fair
New Outdoor Community Spaces Created to Enhance Campus Experience
Two new outdoor community spaces and Cal Poly’s first commissioned outdoor mural have been recently completed. The two outdoor spaces, one in front of the Performing Arts Center (PAC) and the other outside of Campus Market, as well as the mural, were commissioned and created by the Cal Poly Corporation. The space outside the PAC has shaded tables and chairs and lighting for dining alfresco with two food trucks. In addition, two local pop-up restaurants will be serving nearby. Cal Poly donated funds to beautify the perimeter spaces, transforming the entire space in front of the PAC. Outside Campus Market features parklet-style landscaping, umbrellas, and Santa Maria style barbecue and food truck areas. It is also home to a three-panel public mural created by Grover Beach artist Oscar Pearson. These projects are part of the Corporation’s ongoing outdoor campus enhancements. In addition to donating funds, Cal Poly and ASI are assisting with the maintenance and upkeep.
Grand Re-Opening of Mustang Shop Set for Sept. 29
Following an extensive remodel, the newly renovated and renamed Mustang Shop, formerly University Store, will host a Grand Re-Opening Celebration on Thursday, Sept. 29. Following years of collaboration with the Cal Poly Corporation and the university, Follet Higher Education has completed the renovation and has more additions coming this academic year. The celebration starts with a continental breakfast at 10 a.m. (no reservations needed) and a ribbon-cutting with Cal Poly President Jeffrey D. Armstrong, Cal Poly Corporation CEO Cody VanDorn and Follett Higher Education President Ryan Petersen from 2-3 p.m. There will be food, valuable coupons, and music and cheer provided by the Cal Poly Band and Mustang Cheerleaders. The remodel work included a newly relocated entrance in the University Union Plaza, a completely redesigned interior layout and updated lighting to create a brighter, more convenient shopping experience. Students will be able to easily find books and materials, and all customers will be able to shop an expanded assortment of merchandise.
Center for Service in Action to Host Blood Drive Oct. 4
Did you know that one blood donation can save up to three lives? Do your part to save lives by participating in the Center for Service in Action’s on-campus blood drive on Oct. 4, in partnership with Vitalant. A Vitalant bus will be parked on the concrete walkway on Dexter Lawn, near the Dexter Building (No. 34). Appointments are available between 10 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. Scheduled donations are prioritized over walk-ups. Donors are encouraged to hydrate well and eat a hearty meal before donating.
Gina Ann Garcia to Deliver Keynote Address for Hispanic Heritage Month
The Office of University Diversity and Inclusion will welcome Gina Ann Garcia, associate professor in the department of Educational Foundations, Organizations, and Policy at the University of Pittsburgh, to Cal Poly to provide a keynote address from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 29, in Chumash Auditorium. Garcia is an author, professor and leading scholar on Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs). Her keynote address will challenge students, staff, faculty and administrators to think about what the individualized path of becoming an HSI could look like for Cal Poly and will explore the role HSI status plays in ensuring a more just and equitable future for Latinx students on campus.
‘Generosity’ Mural Artist Talk, Ribbon-Cutting Set for Sept. 30
Cal Poly will debut its first commissioned outdoor mural, “Generosity,” with an artist’s talk and ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday, Sept. 30. Central Coast-based artist Oscar Pearson painted the mural, located in the newly renovated Via Carta Plaza adjacent to Campus Market. He will give a talk at 11:10 a.m. in Room 0001 in the Advanced Technology Laboratories (No. 7). The ribbon-cutting will follow the talk at 12:10 p.m. near Campus Market. All are welcome. To help beautify, inspire and grow the collection of campus public art, the Cal Poly Corporation commissioned the mural following a thorough proposal process that included a selection committee comprised of students, faculty and staff and a member of the community. The mural has transformed a divided triptych wall into a vibrant mural that encourages student and community interaction. The mural speaks to several themes, including recognizing the valuable contributions of farm laborers on the Central Coast and Cal Poly student contributions to the field of agriculture.
Director of Jazz Studies and Guests to Give Recital Oct. 6
Arthur White, Cal Poly’s director of jazz studies, will present a jazz recital with guests at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 6, in the Pavilion of the Performing Arts Center. White will play saxophone with out-of-state guest musicians Henry Johnson, guitar; Jo Ann Daugherty, piano; Dale Black, bass; and Thomas Taylor, drums. The program will feature original compositions by White and Johnson. Johnson and Daugherty are coming from Chicago; Black is from Wichita, Kansas, and often works in Los Angeles; and Taylor is from North Carolina. More information is on the Music Department calendar website.Tickets are sold at the Cal Poly Ticket Office, ext. 6-4849. Cal Poly faculty and staff are eligible for a 20% discount. For more information, call ext. 6-2406.
Space Grand Challenge Set for Oct. 7-9
Faculty and staff are invited to watch a live broadcast of the Space Grand Challenge, a global cybersecurity competition for middle and high school students, which takes place Oct. 7-9. This installment is a gamified satellite cybercrime challenge scenario developed by the California Cybersecurity Institute at Cal Poly (CCI). It is comprised of a multi-layered cybercrime plot written by student employees from Cal Poly, complete with complex characters, physical and digital evidence chains, and puzzles that challenge participants, who are required to search through and analyze to solve a satellite hacking crime. The development team has built a virtual-immersive environment within Unity, bringing the vision to life with Unity’s interactive and real-time 3D platform. The event will highlight the convergence of space, cybersecurity and digital forensics. The event will be broadcast on the CCI’s Twitch channel. Employees who know of middle or high school students who might be interested can register a team by Sept. 30.
SLO Symphony Season Opens with ‘Beethoven’s Seventh’ Oct. 8 at the PAC
The San Luis Obispo Symphony opens its 2022-23 season with “Beethoven’s Seventh” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8, in Harold Miossi Hall. Opening night at the San Luis Obispo Symphony, under the direction of Maestro Andrew Sewell, features two principal woodwind soloists, Richard Dobeck (clarinet) and Lisa Nauful (bassoon) in Carl Stamitz’s Concerto for Clarinet, Bassoon and Orchestra in B-flat major. Dobeck and Nauful are both members of Cal Poly's music faculty. The opener begins with Haydn's Symphony No. 13 in D major and concludes with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 in A major. The latter is a symphony of hope and power in a belated recognition of Beethoven's 250th anniversary celebration. Tickets can be purchased at the Cal Poly Ticket Office, by calling 805-756-4849 or by going online on the PAC website.
‘Carousel’ to be Performed by OperaSLO Oct. 15-16 at the PAC
Opera San Luis Obispo will bring the Tony-winning Rodgers and Hammerstein musical “Carousel” to the PAC at 2 p.m. Oct. 15 and 16 in Miossi Hall. Voted the “best musical of the 20th century” by Time Magazine, “Carousel” has moved audiences for decades, exploring themes of love, resilience and the power of forgiveness. Don’t miss the iconic score featuring songs like “If I Loved You,” “June is Bustin’ Out All Over,” and “You’ll Never Walk Alone” performed by an acclaimed cast accompanied by a live orchestra. Tickets can be purchased at the Cal Poly Ticket Office, by calling 805-756-4849 or by going online on the PAC website.
Event Postings
Events.calpoly.edu is a new platform that shines a spotlight on high-profile special events at Cal Poly and throughout our community, focusing on the wide and diverse range of activities on and around campus. This site is designed to help our colleges, programs, departments and facilities promote exciting events that can be seen by a selected audience. It will update regularly and includes events happening in the next 30-45 days. It is not a calendar of all events, and it does not include student club events. Here are some links to help you navigate:
Submitting an Event to Events.calpoly.edu
To submit your event for consideration, please send the event title, date, time, duration, ticket information, intended audience(s) and image (1600 bpi wide) to [email protected].
University Events Calendar
To find a listing of all events — such as performances, lectures, workshops and more — visit our Master Calendar.
Scheduling/Booking Venues
25Live: Space and Event Scheduling can help you schedule or book a venue for an upcoming on-campus event.
Note that a minimum three-day lead time is required to process a request for use of space through the Office of the Registrar.
Visit Cal Poly Now for Student Affairs events, learning opportunities and more
Find the latest student-focused campus events from your favorite Student Affairs programs and services by visiting the new Cal Poly Now.